The Transfer Tavern

Sabatini denies all possibility of Manchester United switch

The Manchester United fans in the Football Transfer Tavern are buzzing as they prepare for the return of the domestic season.

All the international break did was remind them of all the world class central midfielder’s the club missed out on – and it looks like they may struggle in January as well.

Because according to Sky Sports, Roma’s sporting director Walter Sabatini has issued yet another hands-off warning for midfielder Kevin Strootman.

The Serie A club stood firm in this summer’s transfer window by insisting that the former PSV Eindhoven central midfielder is not for sale.

United have been strongly linked with the 24-year-old after the Red Devils boss, Louis van Gaal, looks to be reunited with his Dutch compatriot having worked with during his time in charge of the Netherlands national team.

Strootman missed out on the World Cup after a serious knee injury and for Manchester United to make a move in January, this very much depends on whether or not he can prove his fitness.

However, Sabatini says Roma are determined to keep hold of Strootman and they have no desire to sell him for any price, even if van Gaal does reignite his interest.

“He is an extraordinary player, and these rumours have been based on the desires of other clubs,” said Sabatini

“We want to keep him, he is our point of strength. We hope to see him back in the field with all his powers. He played an exemplary role last season.

“We are not thinking in any way of selling him, we hope to have him return. We must have patience and wait, he is a decisive player.”

Manchester United fans. How disappointed were you to miss out on a world class central midfielder such as Kevin Strootman this summer? Let us know your thoughts below.